A musical meeting of four European Capitals of Culture brings artists from Latvia, Portugal, Finland and Slovakia together on one stage. Each of them presents a distinctive musical world – from contemporary interpretations of traditional instruments and experimental soundscapes to jazz and improvisation. The concerts connect different cultural traditions while also showing how music can cross borders and create new connections between people and cities.
PROGRAMME:
13:00–13:15 Speeches from the European Capitals of Culture
13:15–14:00 Concert by Laima Jansone (LV)
14:00–14:45 Concert by Tozé Bexiga (PT)
14:45–15:30 Fascination Band (SK) feat. Samu Forsblom (FI)
Laima Jansone (LV)
Latvian musician and composer Laima Jansone explores the sonic possibilities of the kokle, a traditional Latvian string instrument. In her work, she combines folklore with contemporary music, improvisation and experimental techniques. Her performances range from meditative melodies to dynamic rhythms. In addition to her solo work, she is also a member of the electronic duo ZeMe, with whom she performed at the Eurosonic festival in the Netherlands.
In cooperation with Liepāja 2027 – European Capital of Culture.
Tozé Bexiga (PT)
Portuguese composer and multi-instrumentalist António “Tozé” Bexiga comes from the Alentejo region. In his solo project RAIA, he explores new possibilities of the traditional Portuguese string instrument viola campaniça, combining musical heritage with experimental sounds. His latest album UÁDI draws inspiration from landscapes, riverbeds and themes of renewal and resilience. He is also one of the authors of the official music for the Évora 2027 project.
In cooperation with Évora 2027 – European Capital of Culture.
Fascination Band (SK) feat. Samu Forsblom (FI)
The Trenčín-based Fascination Band blends jazz, popular music, evergreens and elements of café music. Led by double bassist Jozef Brindzák, the band offers a varied repertoire full of familiar melodies and improvisation. They will be joined on stage by a special guest from Finland – trumpeter Samu Forsblom, Programme Director of Oulu 2026. Together, they will create a musical meeting between Trenčín and Oulu, the two European Capitals of Culture in 2026.
In cooperation with Oulu 2026 – European Capital of Culture.
